Who Is Bipin Rawat? Age, Biography and Wiki
Bipin Rawat was born on March 16, 1958, and tragically passed away in December 2021. As of 2025, he would have been 67 years old. Known for his extensive contribution to the Indian Armed Forces, Rawat made history as the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India, a post he held from December 2019 until his untimely death. With a distinguished career in both military operations and strategic policy, Rawat left an indelible mark on India’s defense landscape.
| Occupation | Service |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1958 |
| Age | 63 Years |
| Birth Place | Saina, Pauri Garhwal district, Uttar Pradesh, India (now in Uttarakhand, India) |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 8 December, 2021 |
| Died Place | Bandishola, Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu, India |
Popularity
Bipin Rawat's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although specific details regarding Bipin Rawat's body measurements are not widely documented, he was noted for maintaining a disciplined military physique. As a General, he exemplified the values of fitness and resilience essential for a leader in the armed forces.
In early 2021, Rawat called the Indian Air Force a "supporting arm" of India's defence network and infrastructure. Air Chief Marshal R. K. S. Bhadauria made a public statement in response that the IAF served a bigger role than a supporting arm.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Bipin Rawat was married to Madhulika Rawat, who was deeply supportive of his military career. The couple shared a close bond, and Madhulika often participated in various social and charitable initiatives alongside her husband. They had two daughters, ensuring that family values were a strong component of Rawat's life. Tragically, both Bipin and Madhulika lost their lives in a helicopter crash in December 2021, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the nation.
Born in Pauri, Pauri Garhwal district in present-day Uttarakhand to Lieutenant General Lakshman Singh Rawat, he graduated from the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy where he was awarded the Sword of Honour. He was commissioned into his father's unit - 11 Gorkha Rifles.
He served during the 1987 Sino-Indian skirmish in the Sumdorong Chu valley. He commanded a company in Uri and his battalion - 5/11 GR along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh. Promoted to the rank of Brigadier, he commanded 5 sector Rashtriya Rifles in Sopore.
He subsequently served with the United Nations as the Commander of a Multinational Brigade as part of MONUSCO.
Net Worth and Salary
While exact figures regarding Bipin Rawat's net worth are not publicly available, as the Chief of Defence Staff, his salary was reflective of his high-ranking position within the Indian Armed Forces, which garnered significant earnings. His service in various key military roles indicated a successful career with potential investments in property and other ventures, although specific details remain undisclosed.
Career, Business and Investments
Bipin Rawat had a commendable military career that spanned nearly four decades. He served in various capacities, gaining extensive experience in counter-insurgency operations and military strategy. His ascent to the position of CDS marked a pivotal reform in the Indian military structure, aiming to increase interoperability among the armed forces. Rawat was also a prominent figure in discussions surrounding defense procurement and modernization, emphasizing India's need for self-reliance in defense capabilities during his tenure.
Early in his career, Rawat had an instructional tenure at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. He had much experience in high-altitude warfare and spent ten years conducting counter-insurgency operations. He commanded a company in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir as a Major. He attended the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.
After the course, he was appointed General Staff Officer, Grade 2 (GSO2) at the Military Operations Directorate at Army headquarters. He also served as a logistics staff officer of a Re-organised Army Plains Infantry Division (RAPID) in Central India.
He attended the Higher Command Course at the United States Army Command and General Staff College (USACGSC) at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Social Network
Despite the tragic end to his life in 2021, Bipin Rawat's legacy continues. His contributions are honored by numerous military and educational organizations. His family maintains a presence on social media, sharing his accomplishments and initiatives that further cement his reputation as a respected leader in India. His discussions and insights into military affairs are still referenced in various national security forums and platforms.
After relinquishing command of III Corps, Rawat was appointed General Officer Commanding Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa Area, headquartered in Mumbai. After a short stint, he was promoted to the Army Commander grade and assumed the post of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Southern Command on 1 January 2016.
After an eight-month tenure, he assumed the post of Vice Chief of the Army Staff on 1 September 2016.
Education
Bipin Rawat graduated from the National Defence Academy and was commissioned into the Indian Army as a Second Lieutenant in December 1978. He attended the Defence Services Staff College as well as the Higher Command Course, equipping him with essential skills for leadership roles in the military. Rawat pursued advanced military education in several areas, which profoundly influenced his strategic outlook during his career.
Rawat was educated at Cambrian Hall School in Dehradun, and at St. Edward's School, Shimla. He then joined the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, and the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, from where he graduated first in the order of merit and was awarded the 'Sword of Honour.'
